Nodularins DM ELISA Toxin Test Kit Microcystin Test 10min - 30min

1. General Description

The  Microcystins (ADDA)-DM (direct monoclonal) ELISA is an im munoassay for the quantitative and sensitive detection of Microcystins and Nodularins in water samples. This test is suitable for the quantitative and/or qualitative detection of Microcystins and Nodularins in water samples [please refer to the appropriate technical bulletins for sample collection, handling, and treatment of drinking (treated and untreated) and recreational water samples]. If necessary, positive samples can be confirmed by HPLC, protein phosphatase assay, or other conventional methods.

2. Safety Instructions

The standard solutions in the test kit contain small amounts of Microcystins. The substrate solution contains tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and the stop solution contains diluted sulfuric acid. Avoid contact of the TMB and stopping solution with skin and mucous membranes. If these reagents come in contact with skin, wash with water.

3. Storage and Stability

The Microcystins (ADDA)-DM ELISA kit should be stored in the refrigerator (4–8°C). The solutions must be allowed to reach room temperature (20-25°C) before use. Reagents may be used until the expiration date on the box. Consult state, local, and federal regulations for proper disposal of all reagents.

4. Test Principle

The test is a direct competitive ELISA for the detection of Microcystins and Nodularins. It is based on the recognition of Microcystins, Nodularins, and their congeners by a monoclonal antibody. Toxin, when present in a sample, and a Microcystins-HRP analogue compete for the binding sites of anti-Microcystins antibodies in solution. The anti-Microcystins antibodies are then bound by a second antibody (goat anti-mouse) im mobilized on the wells of the microtiter plate. After a washing step and addition of the substrate solution, a color signal is generated. The intensity of the blue color is inversely proportional to the concentration of Microcystins present in the sample. The color reaction is stopped after a specified time and the color is evaluated using an ELISA reader. The concentrations of the samples are determined by interpolation using the standard curve constructed with each run.

5. Limitations of the Microcystins (ADDA)-DM ELISA, Possible Test Interference

Numerous organic and inorganic compounds com monly found in water samples have been tested and found not to interfere with this test. However, due to the high variability of compounds that might be found in water samples, test interferences caused by matrix effects cannot be completely excluded. The presence of the following substances were found to have no significant effect on the Microcystins (ADDA)-DM assay results: calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium nitrate, potassium phosphate, calcium chloride, manganese sulfate, and aluminum oxide up to 10,000 ppm; copper chloride, sodium fluoride, sodium thiosulfate, ferric sulfate, and zinc sulfate up to 1,000 ppm; humic acid up to 10 ppm; Lugol’s solution up to 0.01%.